Russia and Iran have an immense, largely untapped potential to expand their trade, and this process should be actively encouraged, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an interview with the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB).
“Our opportunities are immeasurably greater than the current level of trade turnover,” Lavrov said. “How do we expand trade and broader economic ties? We must do everything possible to encourage our economic operators — both yours and ours — and ensure they have favorable conditions. As for government agencies, it’s crucial that they fulfill their obligations on time.”
He noted that infrastructure projects sometimes face difficulties due to delayed payments. “When significant amounts of debt accumulate — for example, at the Bushehr nuclear power plant, for various reasons I won’t go into now — construction inevitably slows down, since it depends on steady financing,” the minister explained.
Lavrov emphasized that beyond trade, Russia and Iran also maintain extensive investment cooperation. “In addition to the North–South transport corridor, there is the flagship project of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, whose construction is ongoing. New units are planned and already under development. This is another key dimension of our cooperation,” he said.
Commenting on the North–South corridor, Lavrov said Russia is eagerly awaiting the completion of Iran’s land acquisition process, which will allow work to “actively begin and finish” the construction of the 160‑kilometer Rasht–Astara railway section.
“There are strategic factors, and I see no problems there — our presidents and governments are fully committed to broadening relations and removing any artificial obstacles,” Lavrov noted. “But there are also practical aspects — where specific ministries, companies and corporations must fulfill their obligations with maximum precision and diligence. I’m confident that we have very strong prospects ahead.”
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Federation Council
Based on materials from TASS